Organised by the Stradishall-based charity, the scheme links schools with care homes in an attempt to bring friendship to the residents, many of whom suffer dementia.

Founder Tony Gearing said: “YOPEY Befrienders are shown things they can do with elderly people with dementia. Many come up with their own ideas.”

Insurer Aviva has given a £25,000 grant to expand YOPEY Befriender in the East of England.

Toby Boston, 18, said: “At first it was a bit of a struggle to get used to dealing with the harsh reality that dementia patients display, but eventually I could look past that and see how lovely they all are.”

Hannah Crown, 17, has spent about 15 hours at the home and said: “The thing I most enjoy is when you do something really small for them and they give you a hug or a big smile. It makes you feel really good.”